Christmas Eggnog Bread with Rum Glaze – Best Holiday Treat Recipe

There’s nothing like the warm, nostalgic flavor of Christmas Eggnog Bread with Rum Glaze to usher in the holiday spirit. This festive bread recipe brings the creamy richness of eggnog, a hint of spiced rum, and the cozy scent of nutmeg to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas brunch or looking for a seasonal treat to share, this moist and flavorful quick bread topped with a luscious rum glaze is bound to be a showstopper.

A Festive Holiday Favorite for Every Baker

This Christmas Eggnog Bread with Rum Glaze is the ultimate holiday treat—simple to prepare, rich in flavor, and perfect for gifting or entertaining. The use of instant pudding mix gives it a velvety texture, while the full-fat eggnog and buttery base make every bite indulgently soft. A drizzle of boozy glaze takes it from delicious to irresistible, making it ideal for both casual gatherings and elegant dessert tables.

What You’ll Need to Make This Christmas Eggnog Bread

Dry and Wet Ingredients

• Granulated Sugar: Adds essential sweetness and moisture balance
• Baking Powder: Ensures the bread rises with a soft crumb
• Spiced Rum: Infuses festive warmth and depth of flavor
• Instant French Vanilla Pudding Mix: Contributes creaminess and structure
• Eggnog: The star ingredient, delivering seasonal richness
• Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients
• Unsalted Butter: Enhances flavor and creates a tender texture
• Ground Nutmeg: Offers a classic holiday spice aroma
• All-Purpose Flour: The base for the bread’s structure
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with aromatic depth

For the Rum Glaze

• Confectioners’ Sugar: Forms the base of the smooth glaze
• Eggnog: Helps create a creamy consistency with seasonal flair
• Ground Nutmeg: Adds warm spice to the glaze
• Spiced Rum: Delivers a rich, boozy finish perfect for holidays

Smart Ingredient Swaps and Substitutions

• Alcohol-Free Option: Replace spiced rum with rum extract or extra vanilla for a kid-friendly version
• Gluten-Free Variation: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute eggnog and butter with plant-based versions like almond eggnog and vegan butter
• Nutmeg Substitute: Try ground cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for a slightly different warm profile
• Egg Replacement: Use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan-friendly alternative

How to Make Christmas Eggnog Bread with Rum Glaze

1. Preheat the Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf or muffin pan with non-stick spray that includes flour for easy release.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 eggs, 1½ cups eggnog, 2 tsp spiced rum, 1 cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ½ cup melted (cooled) butter. Mix using a paddle attachment until blended—don’t worry if butter appears clumpy.
3. Prepare Dry Mix
   In a separate bowl, sift together 2¼ cups flour, 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 tsp baking powder, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp nutmeg. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumping.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
   Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing—the batter will be thick and slightly lumpy from the butter.
5. Bake the Bread
   Pour the batter into your prepared pan. For mini loaves, bake about 30 minutes. A full-sized loaf takes 45–55 minutes. Test with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
6. Prepare the Rum Glaze
   While the bread bakes, whisk 1 cup sifted confectioners’ sugar with 2 tbsp spiced rum, 2 tsp eggnog, and ⅛ tsp nutmeg until smooth and pourable.
7. Cool and Glaze
   Let the bread cool completely before drizzling on the glaze. Allow the glaze to set for a glossy finish. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Pro Tips for a Bakery-Worthy Finish

• Avoid Overmixing: Stir until just combined for a tender crumb
• Check Doneness Early: Every oven varies—test 5 minutes before the recommended time
• Use Full-Fat Eggnog: This gives the bread its rich holiday flavor
• Let it Cool Before Glazing: Warm bread can cause the glaze to melt and soak in
• Store Properly: Wrap tightly in plastic and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week

Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Hot Beverages: Pairs beautifully with coffee, hot cocoa, or spiked chai
• Add Mix-ins: Fold in chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or dried cranberries for extra texture
• Make it a Dessert: Top slices with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Holiday Gift Idea: Bake in mini loaf pans, wrap in parchment, and tie with a festive ribbon
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze the loaf without glaze for up to 3 months; thaw and glaze before serving

Why This Christmas Eggnog Bread Is a Must-Bake

Eggnog isn’t just for sipping—it’s a luxurious ingredient that transforms everyday bakes into something special. This Christmas Eggnog Bread with Rum Glaze harnesses that creamy spice to create a festive loaf bursting with holiday cheer. Whether you’re decking the halls, hosting friends, or just cozying up by the fireplace, this bread is the taste of Christmas in every slice.

Conclusion

There’s something timeless about baking during the holidays, and this Christmas Eggnog Bread with Rum Glaze captures the essence of the season in every slice. With its rich eggnog base, cozy spices, and silky glaze infused with spiced rum, this recipe is a must-have for anyone looking to impress with minimal effort. Whether served warm by the fireplace, sliced for a festive breakfast, or gifted in a beautiful loaf tin, this holiday bread delivers flavor, warmth, and joy. Add it to your annual baking list—it just might become a new tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Eggnog Bread with Rum Glaze

More Relevant Recipes

• Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze: This cozy quick bread is packed with fall flavors and topped with a sweet maple glaze, making it a great companion recipe to the Christmas Eggnog Bread with Rum Glaze. It’s moist, rich, and perfect for holiday mornings or gifting.
• Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: These muffins offer a delightful blend of pumpkin and apple with a crunchy streusel topping, echoing the warm spice profile of the eggnog bread while adding fruity depth and texture. Ideal for a seasonal brunch table.
• Whipped Pumpkin Dip: A creamy, spiced dip that captures similar flavors to the eggnog bread, this treat is perfect for dipping graham crackers or fruit. It’s a quick no-bake option for anyone craving festive flavors in a flash.

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